International
Stockport College is Outstanding. Ofsted. May 2007
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Useful Information

There are many questions that students will have about coming to live in the UK. Please contact us by email if you need further information. We will be happy to answer your questions.

UK Climate

The UK climate is similar to most Northern European countries. Summer time is a mixture of mild and warm weather, although in the Winter and Spring months it is generally cold so you will need to bring jumpers, a warm coat, hat and gloves. You will need an umbrella or waterproof coat in the Spring.

Health

Free treatment is available for all International Students studying in the UK for more than six months, which is provided by the National Health Service.

You must register with a doctor when you arrive. There is a small charge for any medical prescriptions recommended by the doctor. You are also entitled to Dental treatment, although there is a charge for this.

Students who travel from high risk countries may be required to undergo TB screening before a visa is issued or upon entry to the UK. You will be told if this is necessary when you apply for your visa.

Banking & Money

If you do not already have a bank account, it is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash with you upon your arrival into the UK. Only bring enough to support your stay in the UK for about two weeks. You can open a student account in many high street banks. Most banks will require proof of your student status or a letter from the College. You can then arrange to transfer any funds from your home country to this account.

Insurance

It is advisable to arrange an insurance policy to cover all your personal belongings before you arrive in the UK. Or alternatively, there are several insurance companies who specialise in insurance for students. The Students Union will have information about these.

Work Regulations

Most International students can only work part time of no more than 20 hours per week during the term time and full time in the holiday periods. It is important to remember that any work undertaken in the UK will NOT be considered towards your tuition fees or living costs when you apply for a visa. (The exception to this rule is if you have organised part time work at the College)

Immigration Issues (Non European Union Nationals)

Student Visa

Once you are accepted on a course and you have paid your deposit with us the International Support Team can issue you with a visa letter.  We hold a Tier 4 Visa Sponsor License from the UK Border Agency to issue this letter in support of your Visa application.  Firstly you must satisfy the following criteria to adhere to requirements for a Tier 4 Visa:

  • If you are over 18 or over you need to be accepted onto a course that is at Level 3 (A Level/National Diploma) or Level 4 (Degree) or English CEFR Waystage A2. See http://www.cambridgeesol.org/exams/exams-info/cefr.html for more information about English Levels.
  • You need to satisfy all financial requirements as outlined by the UK Border Agency.
  • Bear in mind that Tier 4 student visas are only valid for four years and will not be extended beyond this.

For further details and information please go to:

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk/

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